Youngs Creek Horse Camp offers primitive campsites in the Hoosier National Forest with vault toilets and fresh water access. The camp features gravel parking areas designed for horse trailers with level pads. The surrounding woodland trails provide excellent horseback riding opportunities in southern Indiana's scenic terrain. Located about five miles from Paoli, the camp maintains a secluded atmosphere while offering access to essential services when needed. The campground typically remains uncrowded except during organized trail rides.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The trail system near Youngs Creek Horse Camp connects to various routes through southern Indiana woodland. "The trail that loops back to the site for easy hiking access," notes David M., making it convenient for day hikes from camp.
Fishing opportunities: At Harmonie State Park, the Wabash River provides excellent fishing access. "The state park is located on the Wabash River and has a boat ramp," explains Olivia S., giving anglers easy water access. The park lies about 75 miles southwest of Winslow.
Paddling adventures: Lakes in the area provide calm waters perfect for kayaking and canoeing. At Hoosier National Forest's North Face Loop Campground, "there are two lakes, Indian and Celina, in the immediate area, electric motors only," according to Shelly S., creating peaceful paddling environments about 30 miles southeast of Winslow.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spaciousness at Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground. "All of the sites are spaced far enough away that you'll have your privacy. The sites are clean and spacious as well as very flat for tents," reports Chelsi S.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting offers opportunities to spot local fauna. At Jackpine Loop Campground, "Wildlife is everywhere, as it is not unusual to have a Momma deer and her little one walk through the woods by your campsite or down by the boat launch, often followed by a turkey or two," shares Cathleen T.
Peaceful atmosphere: Horse campgrounds near Winslow, Indiana maintain a quiet, natural environment. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, Doc S. notes, "YC horse camp is well laid out and fairly spacious, apparently only for the random hikers and hunters." This creates a tranquil setting for those seeking solitude.
What you should know
Limited site availability: Horse camp sites can fill quickly during peak events. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, Susan A. advises, "The only time this camp is full is when a trail ride is going on, then it fills up fast."
Cash payment required: Some campgrounds don't accept credit cards. One camper at Spring Mill State Park recommends, "You need cash by the way, no card machines here. $5 and $1 bills will do you."
Tick prevention essential: The wooded areas around equestrian campgrounds near Winslow harbor ticks. "The tick's here seem like the Infantry, swarming the objective from all side's. Bring your bug stuff!" warns Shelly S. about the Hoosier National Forest area.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps may require careful driving. When visiting Youngs Creek Horse Camp, Elizabeth W. suggests you "travel carefully up the roads" due to rough or uneven terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Red Hills State Park offers water recreation for children. "It has a beautiful lake you can fish or just sit back and let the kids play," shares Barry B., making it a good option for families about 50 miles west of Winslow.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Harmonie State Park, Olivia S. notes, "There are 3 playgrounds throughout the campground," giving children places to burn energy between trail rides.
Educational opportunities: Spring Mill State Park offers learning experiences alongside camping. "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there," explains Jessie W., combining outdoor recreation with education.
Seasonal events: Look for special family activities during holiday periods. Nichole M. recommends Harmonie State Park's Halloween festivities: "They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot... There was also a hayride in the evening for a small fee and that included making smore's at the bonfire."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for RVs. Thomas U. warns about Spring Mill State Park: "The site we where at was heavily sloped, the only flat part was where they put the fire pit at."
Electric hookup details: Many horse campgrounds offer limited electrical service. Doug W. notes about Red Hills State Park: "Most sites are 30 amp but the Lake view loop are 50 amp. There are a few sites that will handle large rigs but most are for medium sized rigs."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At Harmonie State Park, Olivia S. mentions it is "located back in the hills, far off the highway. Very little cell phone signal," which affects communication and internet access.
Water access planning: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer full hookups. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, there's "a vault toilet and water on site," according to David M., requiring RVers to plan their water needs accordingly.
